If you’re passionate about music and want to compose your own pieces, reading the best books for aspiring music composers is an excellent place to start. These books are more than just guides—they’re sources of inspiration, knowledge, and practical techniques. Whether you’re new to composing or looking to sharpen your skills, these books provide valuable insights that can elevate your craft. Below, we’ll highlight some must-read books that every aspiring music composer should have on their shelf.
1. “The Study of Orchestration” by Samuel Adler
For anyone serious about orchestration, this book is a goldmine. It explains the role of every instrument in an orchestra and teaches you how to arrange music effectively. Adler breaks down complex concepts into simple, actionable lessons. The accompanying audio examples allow you to hear how different orchestration techniques sound in practice.
This is a must-have for aspiring composers aiming to work with orchestras, as it provides a solid foundation in instrumentation and arranging.
2. “Music Composition for Dummies” by Scott Jarrett and Holly Day
Sometimes, the basics are all you need to get started. This book simplifies the art of composition, making it accessible for beginners. It covers everything from writing melodies to structuring full pieces of music. The practical advice and exercises included in the book help you practice as you learn.
Using this guide, aspiring composers can build a strong foundation without feeling overwhelmed by jargon or overly technical language.
3. “Writing Music for Hit Songs” by Jai Josefs
If your goal is to write catchy and memorable songs, this book is for you. Josefs dives deep into the techniques used by professional songwriters to create hit songs. It includes tips on lyric writing, melody development, and creating impactful arrangements.
This book is particularly helpful for aspiring composers who are drawn to the world of pop, rock, or other commercial music genres.
4. “Film Scoring 101” by David Bell
For those interested in composing music for film, David Bell’s book is a fantastic resource. It explains how to write music that enhances storytelling, matches a scene’s tone, and communicates emotions. You’ll learn about the relationship between composers and directors and how to approach scoring projects professionally.
This book is a must-read for aspiring composers looking to break into the film industry.
5. “How to Write Songs on Guitar” by Rikky Rooksby
If you’re a guitarist, this book can be your best companion. It focuses on songwriting from a guitarist’s perspective, offering practical advice on chord progressions, riffs, and melody writing. Rooksby provides step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow, even for beginners.
Aspiring composers who primarily use the guitar as their creative tool will find this book invaluable.
6. “Tonal Harmony” by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne
Understanding music theory is essential for any composer, and this book provides an in-depth look at tonal harmony. It covers the rules of Western music and explains how to apply them in your compositions. While it’s a bit more advanced, the clear explanations and examples make it a rewarding read.
Aspiring composers who want to deepen their theoretical knowledge will benefit greatly from this resource.
7. “Modern Recording Techniques” by David Miles Huber
In today’s world, music composition often involves recording and production. This book covers the technical side of creating music, including recording techniques, mixing, and mastering. It’s an excellent choice for composers who want to understand the production process and ensure their compositions sound professional.
By incorporating this knowledge, aspiring composers can bring their music to life with high-quality recordings.
8. “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Music Composition” by Michael Miller
This book is another excellent starting point for beginners. It explains music composition in a friendly and straightforward way, covering melody, harmony, and rhythm. It also includes examples and exercises to help you practice what you learn.
Aspiring composers will appreciate its accessible tone and practical approach.
9. “Behind Bars: The Definitive Guide to Music Notation” by Elaine Gould
If you want your compositions to look professional, understanding music notation is crucial. This book is the ultimate guide to writing clear and correct sheet music. It covers everything from note placement to advanced notational techniques.
Aspiring composers who need to prepare sheet music for performers will find this guide indispensable.
10. “A Composer’s Guide to Game Music” by Winifred Phillips
Composing for video games is a growing field, and this book provides an inside look at the industry. Phillips explains how to create adaptive music that changes based on gameplay, a skill unique to this genre. She also shares her experiences and tips for breaking into the business.
For aspiring composers interested in game music, this book is both practical and inspiring.
Conclusion
The best books for aspiring music composers offer a blend of theory, practical advice, and creative inspiration. Whether you’re writing for orchestras, pop songs, or video games, these resources can help you refine your skills and bring your musical ideas to life. Reading is a great way to learn from the experts and gain new perspectives. So grab a book, start learning, and let your creativity shine!
